A Merlot find worth double the price

In the ever evolving world of winemaking you will now and then come across a surprising varietal. Italian grapes in BC or a Verdicchio grown in France. Italy has thrown up a few of these in the last 20 years, starting with the applause with which America greeted the “Super-Tuscans.”

In case you missed it America via the Wine Spectator cheering section decided Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot were the only grapes worth drinking. A few Tuscan winemakers decided to grow and bottle these grapes in a Bordelais style wine, the Super-Tuscans, to great applause.

It’s not quite the revolutionary idea that many wine snobs believe it to be. Merlot has been included in Chianti going back at least to the 1880s and Count Ricasoli’s efforts to improve the wine. These days you can find plots of Syrah and Merlot throughout the province. They are though not often bottled as individual varietals. Or perhaps I should say not often sold as such in Canada.

In any event I came across just such a bottle at the Coop. Even better, the wine is from the stellar vintage of 2009. This was a perfect growing year, and I keep an eye peeled for it at all times.

La Pratola is probably just beginning to hit its stride. I expect you could lay this wine down for at least another decade. The bouquet is mostly cedar with some herbs. The palate exhibits gorgeous balance with acidity fruit and a dryness. The finish lasts forever.

If you know somebody who likes serious Merlot, pick up as many as you can afford as a gift. You seldom find wines like this for under a $100.

Le Pratola Merlot 2009 $40 *****

A different Canadian white wine next week. Other wines on Twitter @drbooze.